FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEThursday, January 9, 2014CONTACT OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS202-482-4883

Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker commended the introduction of the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities Act of 2014, which would provide Congressional guidance on the negotiation and passage of trade agreements.

“As the leading trade and investment promotion agency in the federal government, the U.S. Department of Commerce is committed to doing everything we can to ensure that America remains globally competitive. U.S. trade and investment are critical to fueling our economic growth,” said Secretary Pritzker. “Ninety-five percent of the world’s consumers are outside of our borders, and completing trade agreements that help more American companies reach these markets will create more jobs in the U.S. at higher wages. The Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities Act of 2014 will help in these efforts to expand market access for American businesses, ensure a level playing field for companies selling their goods abroad, and support the creation of more American jobs. We look forward to working with Congress on bipartisan passage of Trade Promotion Authority."